Teacher Appreciation Week Dos and Don'ts

We just got back from the National Association of Elementary School Principals Convention in New Orleans, Louisiana, and really enjoyed talking to all the principals and attendees about memorable Teacher Appreciation Week celebrations.

The conference attendees had a lot to say about memorable teacher appreciation they had given and received, which inspired this list of dos and don’ts for Teacher Appreciation Week 2009.

DO give a gift during Teacher Appreciation Week. A tangible recognition item serves as a constant reminder of your appreciation. Teachers and staff members will use your gift through the end of the school year and will feel your appreciation every day!

DO make it personal. Present gifts to individuals or teams in person at a staff meeting, school assembly, or by dropping in a classroom. The in-person presentation will make the appreciation gift even more valuable to your teachers and staff.

DO something everyday. Teachers and staff work hard all through the school year, often without the thanks they deserve. Make Teacher Appreciation Week a special time by recognizing their dedication and contributions all week.

DON’T try to do everything yourself. A school is a community of teachers, staff, students and parents. Get everyone involved in the celebration! Be sure to keep the PTA involved in the planning and preparation of the week. This group has great ideas and talents to share! Be sure to recognize them for their work at the end of the week!

DON’T leave gifts in the lounge. Yes, a conference attendee told us that this actually happened at her school! Staff gifts were left in the teachers lounge, and an email instructed everyone to pick up the gift themselves. Something about this doesn’t seem very genuine to us…

DON’T spend an arm and a leg! A memorable Teacher Appreciation Week doesn’t have to break your budget. Our themes, Teachers Rock and Making a Difference, feature quality gifts for under $10 each!

Quick Tips

Giving a gift is an important part of Teacher Appreciation Week and can make your teachers and staff feel appreciation through the end of the school year. To make your gift most effective, follow these gift giving tips:

1. Select your gift carefully, and choose an item that teachers and staff will use frequently.
2. For an impressive presentation, gift wrap your gift. A gift bag and some tissue paper can really dress up your gift!
3. Make the gift truly memorable by including a greeting card or small note card.
4. Learn from this year’s Teacher Appreciation Week to make 2013 even better! Talk to teachers and staff about the gift and its presentation. What can you do better next year?

SIGN UP FOR BAUDVILLE'S EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION BLOG

Get daily insights, ideas, and inspiration on all thingsemployee recognition, corporate culture, wellness and more!